The bill H.227 aims to establish a residential peer respite facility in southern Vermont to support individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. It intends to increase the number of psychiatric residential beds overseen by the Department of Mental Health from four to six, thereby providing more options for individuals in crisis and reducing the need for inpatient psychiatric care. The bill emphasizes the importance of residential alternatives to hospitalization, peer-supported programming, and the potential for cost savings for both the state and individuals seeking mental health support.

To implement this initiative, the Department of Mental Health is tasked with issuing a request for proposals to establish a two-bed residential peer respite facility. One bed will be reserved for stays of up to four weeks, while the other will accommodate short-term stays of up to two weeks. The bill appropriates $515,000 from the General Fund for fiscal year 2026 to support the establishment and operation of this facility, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025.